Description
Craving comfort food with a cheesy Italian twist? These Chicken Parmesan Sloppy Joes combine the saucy, savory goodness of classic Sloppy Joes with the melty cheese and herbed flavor of Chicken Parmesan. They’re juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Mixture:
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1 lb ground chicken
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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2 tbsp tomato paste (for richness)
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
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6 hamburger buns or brioche rolls
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6 slices mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Aromatics
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
4. Add ground chicken to the skillet.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
6. Cook for 6–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and lightly browned.
Step 3: Add Sauce & Simmer
7. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor.
8. Pour in marinara sauce and red pepper flakes (if using).
9. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened slightly.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
10. While the filling simmers, melt butter in a separate pan or on a griddle.
11. Toast buns cut side down until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
12. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto each bottom bun.
13. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and top with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
14. If you want the cheese melted, place the assembled bottoms under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until bubbly.
15. Add top buns and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
Use Brioche Buns – They’re soft, slightly sweet, and hold up well to saucy fillings.
Don’t Skip the Toasting – Toasted buns prevent sogginess and add texture.
Add Extra Cheese – For ultimate comfort food vibes, mix some mozzarella into the filling too.
Make it Spicy – A dash of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste adds a flavorful kick.
Customize It – Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American–Italian